Connection member and electrical connection unit

Abstract

A connection member for connecting a first bus bar and a member to be connected, the connection member having: a first portion extending in a first direction; and a second portion that extends from one end of the first portion in a second direction intersecting the first direction, faces the first bus bar in the first direction, and is fixed to the first bus bar, the first portion including a first attachment portion that attaches the first bus bar to the first bus bar when the first member to be connected is applied as the member to be connected, and a second attachment portion that attaches the second bus bar to the first bus bar when the second member to be connected is applied as the member to be connected. The first fastening part can be mounted to the first mounting part in the first direction; and a second mounting portion to which the second fastening member can be mounted in the second direction when the second member to be connected is applied as the member to be connected.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments of the present application relate to a connection member and an electrical connection unit. BACKGROUND

[0002] An electrical connection unit is known that has a housing that accommodates an electronic component and a bus bar that is mounted to the housing in a standing posture.

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0004] PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-037492 SUMMARY

[0006] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0007] However, generalization of components of the electrical connection unit is desired.

[0008] One embodiment provides a connection member and an electrical connection unit that enable generalization of components.

[0009] TECHNICAL SOLUTION FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0010] The connection member of one embodiment is a connection member for connecting a first bus bar and a connection object member, and has a first portion that extends in a first direction, and a second portion that extends from an end portion of the first portion in a second direction that crosses the first direction, opposes the first bus bar in the first direction, and is fixed to the first bus bar, the first portion having a first mounting portion to which a first fastening member is mountable in the first direction in a case where a first connection object member is applied as the connection object member, and a second mounting portion to which a second fastening member is mountable in the second direction in a case where a second connection object member is applied as the connection object member.

[0011] EFFECT OF THE INVENTION

[0012] According to one embodiment, generalization of components of the electrical connection unit is enabled. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view that shows an electrical connection unit of an embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 FIG. 3 is a perspective view for explaining a main body portion of an embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3 FIG. 4 is a perspective view for explaining a sub unit of an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a part of the subunit of the embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 is a perspective view for explaining the electronic component and the connecting component of the embodiment.

[0018] Figure 6 is a perspective view for explaining the electronic component and the connecting component of the embodiment.

[0019] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the connecting component of the embodiment.

[0020] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the wiring substrate of the embodiment.

[0021] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing a part of the wiring substrate of the embodiment.

[0022] Figure 10 is a plan view showing the wiring substrate of the embodiment.

[0023] Figure 11 is a perspective view showing a part of the connecting unit of the embodiment.

[0024] Figure 12 is a bottom view showing the wiring substrate of the embodiment.

[0025] Figure 13 is a sectional view taken along the line A-A of the structure shown in Figure 10

[0026] Figure 14 is a perspective view showing the three-dimensional wiring structure of the bus bar of the embodiment.

[0027] Figure 15 is a plan view showing the three-dimensional wiring structure of the bus bar of the embodiment.

[0028] Figure 16 is a sectional view for explaining the structure related to the connecting component of the embodiment.

[0029] Figure 17 is a perspective view for explaining the connecting component of the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, structures having the same or similar functions are designated by the same reference numerals. Also, repetitive description of these structures can be omitted. In addition, the structures described below do not limit the scope of the embodiments.​

[0031] In the present disclosure, the terms are defined as follows. The "connection" is not limited to a mechanical connection, and can include an electrical connection. That is, the "connection" is not limited to a case where two elements as connection objects are directly connected, and can include a case where two elements as connection objects are connected with other elements interposed therebetween. The "accommodation" is not limited to a case where the entirety of a component is accommodated, and can include a case where only a part of a component is accommodated (a state where the remaining part of the component protrudes). The "facing" means that imaginary projected images of two objects overlap each other in a case where they are observed from a particular direction. That is, the "facing" is not limited to a case where two objects directly face each other, and can include a case where two objects face each other in a state where other components are present between the two objects. The "parallel", "orthogonal", or "identical" can respectively include a case where "substantially parallel", "substantially orthogonal", or "substantially identical" is satisfied.

[0032] In the present disclosure, the +X direction, the -X direction, the +Y direction, the -Y direction, the +Z direction, and the -Z direction are defined as follows. The +X direction is a direction from a first end portion 80e1 of a metal plate 80 described later toward a second end portion 80e2 (see FIG. 1). Figure 11 The -X direction is a direction opposite to the +X direction. Hereinafter, in a case where the +X direction and the -X direction are not distinguished, the direction is simply referred to as the "X direction". The +Y direction and the -Y direction are directions intersecting (for example, orthogonal to) the X direction. The +Y direction is a direction from a third end portion 80e3 of the metal plate 80 described later toward a fourth end portion 80e4 (see FIG. 1). Figure 11 The -Y direction is a direction opposite to the +Y direction. Hereinafter, in a case where the +Y direction and the -Y direction are not distinguished, the direction is simply referred to as the "Y direction". The +Z direction and the -Z direction are directions intersecting (for example, orthogonal to) the X direction and the Y direction. The +Z direction is a direction from the metal plate 80 described later toward a main body portion MU (see FIG. 1). Figure 1 The -Z direction is a direction opposite to the +Z direction. Hereinafter, in a case where the +Z direction and the -Z direction are not distinguished, the direction is simply referred to as the "Z direction". The Z direction is an example of the "first direction". The X direction is an example of the "second direction". The Y direction is an example of the "third direction".

[0033] Hereinafter, in a case where the X direction and the Y direction are not distinguished, the direction is sometimes referred to as the "horizontal direction". Hereinafter, the Z direction is sometimes referred to as the "vertical direction". In addition, hereinafter, the +Z direction side is sometimes referred to as "up", and the -Z direction side is sometimes referred to as "down". However, these expressions are expressions for convenience of explanation, and do not limit the direction of gravity of the electrical connection unit 1 (the setting posture of the electrical connection unit 1).

[0034] (Embodiment)

[0035] <1. Structure of Electrical Connection Unit>

[0036] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an electrical connection unit 1 of an embodiment. The electrical connection unit 1 is, for example, an in-vehicle device mounted on a vehicle such as an EV (Electric Vehicle), an HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle), or a PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). The electrical connection unit 1 can also be referred to as an "electrical connection box" or a "junction box", for example. However, the electrical connection unit 1 is not limited to a box-type device.

[0037] The electrical connection unit 1 has, for example, a main body portion MU, a metal plate (support member) 80, an insulating sheet 91 (see FIG. 2), a plurality of heat conductive members 92, and an insulating cover 93. Figure 11

[0038] <2. Main Body Portion>

[0039] First, the main body portion MU will be described.

[0040] Figure 2 is a perspective view for explaining the main body portion MU. The main body portion MU is a portion that realizes main functions (for example, switching of an electrical connection state or overcurrent protection) of the electrical connection unit 1. In the present embodiment, the main body portion MU is divided into a plurality of sub-units SU. The main body portion MU is formed by joining the plurality of sub-units SU. In the present embodiment, the main body portion MU has three sub-units SU (sub-units SUX, SUY, and SUZ). Each sub-unit SU can also be referred to as a "circuit structure".

[0041] The sub-unit SUX has a first electrical function. The sub-unit SUX includes, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10X and a first wiring substrate 40X. The plurality of electronic components 10X are electrically connected to the first wiring substrate 40X.

[0042] The sub-unit SUY has a second electrical function. The second function is a function different from the first function. The sub-unit SUY includes, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10Y and a second wiring substrate 40Y. The plurality of electronic components 10Y are electrically connected to the second wiring substrate 40Y.

[0043] The sub-unit SUZ has a third electrical function. The third function is a function different from the first function and the second function. The sub-unit SUZ includes, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10Z and a third wiring substrate 40Z. The plurality of electronic components 10Z are electrically connected to the third wiring substrate 40Z.

[0044] ​In the present embodiment, the three sub-units SUX, SUY, and SUZ are arranged in the X direction. For example, the sub-unit SUX is arranged on the +X direction side with respect to the sub-unit SUY. The sub-unit SUX and the sub-unit SUY are electrically connected via the plurality of link bus bars 75 across the first wiring substrate 40X and the second wiring substrate 40Y. On the other hand, the sub-unit SUZ is arranged on the -X direction side with respect to the sub-unit SUY. The sub-unit SUZ and the sub-unit SUY are electrically connected via the plurality of link bus bars 75 (only one is illustrated in FIG. 10) across the third wiring substrate 40Z and the second wiring substrate 40Y. The link bus bars 75 are arranged on the side opposite to the metal plate 80 with respect to the plurality of sub-units SU. Figure 2

[0045] In the present embodiment, the three wiring substrates 40X, 40Y, and 40Z included in the three sub-units SUX, SUY, and SUZ are arranged on the same plane. In other words, the three wiring substrates 40X, 40Y, and 40Z are arranged at the same height position in the Z direction. Thus, the three wiring substrates 40X, 40Y, and 40Z form one large wiring substrate 40M.

[0046] In the present embodiment, the three sub-units SUX, SUY, and SUZ have the same or similar basic structure to each other. Thus, hereinafter, one sub-unit SU will be described in detail as a representative. Hereinafter, the sub-units SUX, SUY, and SUZ will be simply referred to as "sub-unit SU" without distinction. In addition, the electronic components 10X, 10Y, and 10Z will be simply referred to as "electronic component 10" without distinction. In addition, the first wiring substrate 40X, the second wiring substrate 40Y, and the third wiring substrate 40Z will be simply referred to as "wiring substrate 40" without distinction.

[0047] In addition, instead of the above-described example, the main body portion MU can not be divided into a plurality of sub-units SU. That is, the main body portion MU can be formed of a plurality of electronic components 10 and one wiring substrate 40. In addition, two or more sub-units SU are not limited to sub-units SU having different functions, and can be sub-units SU having the same function.

[0048] <3. Structure of sub-unit>

[0049] Next, the structure of the sub-unit SU will be described.

[0050] Figure 3 is a perspective view for illustrating the sub-unit SU. Figure 4 ​is a perspective view showing a part of the subunit SU. The subunit SU includes, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10, a plurality of connection components 20 for connecting the components, a plurality of connection components 30 for external connection, and a wiring substrate 40. The connection components 20, 30 are components that form a power supply path in the vertical direction. The connection components 20, 30 can also be referred to as "vertical wiring components".

[0051] <3.1 Electronic components and connection components for component connection>

[0052] First, the electronic components 10 and the connection components 20 for component connection will be described.

[0053] The electronic components 10 are electronic components mounted according to the functions required by the subunit SU. The electronic components 10 are, for example, connectors, fuses, relays (for example, mechanical relays or semiconductor relays), capacitors, branch components, various sensors (for example, current sensors or voltage sensors), electronic control units, or electronic component units in which two or more of these are unified. Furthermore, the types of the electronic components 10 are not limited to the above examples. The electronic components 10 are, for example, heat generating components that generate heat when power is supplied. Hereinafter, as examples of the electronic components 10, a first type of electronic component 10M and a second type of electronic component 10N will be described.

[0054] The connection components 20 are components that electrically connect the electronic components 10 and the wiring substrate 40. The connection components 20 form a part of the power supply path in the subunit SU. The connection components 20 are made of metal (for example, copper or a copper alloy). The connection components 20 can also be referred to as "metal components". Hereinafter, as examples of the connection components 20, a first type of connection component 20M and a second type of connection component 20N will be described. The connection components 30, 100 described later can also be referred to as "metal components".

[0055] <3.1.1 First type of electronic component>

[0056] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing a first type of electronic component 10M and a first type of connection component 20M. The first type of electronic component 10M is an electronic component in which a plurality of terminals 13 are arranged at one end portion of the electronic component 10M. The electronic component 10M has, for example, a housing 11, a component main body portion 12, a plurality of terminals 13, and a plurality of mounting portions 14.

[0057] (Housing)

[0058] The housing 11 is an outer member that forms most of the outer shape of the electronic component 10M. The housing 11 is made of, for example, synthetic resin, and has insulating properties. The housing 11 houses the component main body portion 12. Further, the housing 11 and the component main body portion 12 can be integrally formed.

[0059] In the present embodiment, the housing 11 has an insulating rib 11a that protrudes in the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction) and extends in the Z direction. The insulating rib 11a is, for example, plate-shaped in the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction) and the Z direction. The insulating rib 11a extends, for example, over the entire length of the housing 11 in the Z direction. The insulating rib 11a is disposed between a plurality of terminals 13 (terminals 13A and 13B described later). The insulating rib 11a electrically insulates between the terminal 13A and the terminal 13B. In the present embodiment, a portion of the insulating rib 11a is disposed between first portions 21 (described later) of two connection members 20M connected to the electronic component 10M. The insulating rib 11a electrically insulates between the first portions 21 of the two connection members 20M connected to the electronic component 10M.

[0060] (Component main body portion)

[0061] The component main body portion 12 is a portion that realizes the main function of the electronic component 10M. For example, in the case where the electronic component 10M is a relay, the component main body portion 12 includes a switching portion (for example, a contact portion) that switches between an on state and an off state. For example, in the case where the electronic component 10M is a fuse, the component main body portion 12 includes a fuse portion that melts in the case where an overcurrent flows. For example, in the case where the electronic component 10M is a capacitor, the component main body portion 12 includes a portion that accumulates electric charge.

[0062] (Terminal)

[0063] The terminal 13 is an electrical connection portion that is exposed to the outside of the housing 11. The terminal 13 is electrically connected to the component main body portion 12 inside the housing 11. In the present embodiment, the electronic component 10M includes a terminal 13A and a terminal 13B as a plurality of terminals 13. One of the terminal 13A and the terminal 13B is a positive electrode side terminal. The other of the terminal 13A and the terminal 13B is a negative electrode side terminal.

[0064] In the present embodiment, the terminal 13A and the terminal 13B are provided at one end portion of the electronic component 10M in the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction). The terminal 13A and the terminal 13B are disposed side by side in the horizontal direction (for example, the Y direction). Each terminal 13 has a mounting hole 13h in which a fastening member 71 (for example, a screw or a bolt) described later is installed. The mounting hole 13h is open in the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction). The inner peripheral surface of the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10M has a screw groove.

[0065] (Mounting portion)

[0066] The mounting portion 14 is a portion for fixing the electronic component 10M. The mounting portion 14 has a mounting hole 14h for mounting a fastening member 112 (e.g., a screw or a bolt, refer to Figure 11 ) described later. The mounting hole 14h is open in the Z direction. The mounting hole 14h is a through-hole for the fastening member 112 to pass through. The fixing object of the mounting portion 14 is described later.

[0067] <3.1.2 First Type Connection Member>

[0068] The connection member 20M of the first type is a member disposed between the electronic component 10M of the first type and the wiring substrate 40. In the present embodiment, the connection member 20M electrically connects the electronic component 10M and the bus bar 42 (refer to Figure 8 ) included in the wiring substrate 40. The connection member 20M has, for example, a first portion 21 standing upward of the wiring substrate 40 and a second portion 22 disposed along the wiring substrate 40.

[0069] (First Portion)

[0070] The first portion 21 of the connection member 20M is a portion connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M. The first portion 21 is a plate-shaped or cuboid-shaped portion extending in the Z direction. The first portion 21 extends in the Z direction along one end portion (e.g., an end portion in the X direction) of the electronic component 10M. The first portion 21 is a standing portion standing in the Z direction with respect to the wiring substrate 40 (e.g., with respect to the bus bar 42 described later). The first portion 21 is adjacent to the electronic component 10M in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). For example, the first portion 21 is adjacent to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction), and is connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M from the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction).

[0071] The first portion 21 of the connection member 20M has a mounting hole 21h for the fastening member 71 (e.g., a screw or a bolt) to pass through. The mounting hole 21h is open in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). In addition, the first portion 21 has a recess 25 around the mounting hole 21h. The recess 25 is a housing portion that houses the head of the fastening member 71 inserted into the mounting hole 21h. By engaging the fastening member 71 passing through the mounting hole 21h with the mounting hole 13h of the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M, the first portion 21 is physically and electrically connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M. In addition, the first portion 21 can not have the recess 25.

[0072] Figure 17 is a perspective view showing a structure that the connection members 20, 30, 100 of the present embodiment can adopt. In Figure 17In the drawings, reference numeral 20A collectively refers to the connection members 20, 30, 100, and reference numerals 21A, 21hA, 21hB, 22A, 22hA collectively refer to the first portion, the first mounting hole, the second mounting hole, the second portion, and the third mounting hole of each connection member, respectively. In Figure 17 In the drawings, the structure common to each connection member is shown.

[0073] Figure 17 The first portion 21A shown in the drawing is provided with a first mounting portion 21fA including the first mounting hole 21hA, which is capable of mounting (fixing) a connection target member (the second type of electronic component 10N, the bus bars 75, 76, and the like) from the Z direction using a fastening member F1 (a fastening member 72 or the like, which can also be referred to as a "first fastening member") along the Z direction, and a second mounting portion 21fB including the second mounting hole 21hB, which is capable of mounting (fixing) another connection target member (the first type of electronic component 10M or the like) from the X direction using a fastening member F2 (a fastening member 71 or the like, which can also be referred to as a "second fastening member") along the X direction.

[0074] In addition, the second portion 22A is provided with a third mounting portion 22fA including the third mounting hole 22hA, which is capable of being mounted (fixed) to the bus bar 42 (see Figure 8 ) using a fastening member (a fastening member 43 or the like, which can also be referred to as a "third fastening member") along the Z direction.

[0075] Note that, Figure 17 The first portion 21A of the connection member 20, for example, can also be provided with a side surface mounting portion 21fC including a side surface mounting hole 21hC, which is capable of further mounting (fixing) another connection target member using a fastening member F3 along the Y direction.

[0076] The first mounting portion 21fA and the second mounting portion 21fB in the first portion 21A are arranged so as to be displaced from each other in the Y direction. The displacement D1 in the Y direction between the first mounting portion 21fA and the second mounting portion 21fB corresponds to the interval in the Y direction between the center A1 of the first mounting hole 21hA and the center B1 of the second mounting hole 21hB. The displacement D1 can be set so that the first mounting hole 21hA and the second mounting hole 21hB do not overlap in the Y direction.

[0077] The second mounting portion 21fB of the first portion 21A and the third mounting portion 22fA of the second portion 22A are arranged so as to be displaced from each other in the Y direction. The displacement D2 in the Y direction between the second mounting portion 21fB and the third mounting portion 22fA corresponds to the interval in the Y direction between the center B1 of the second mounting hole 21hB and the center C1 of the third mounting hole 22hA. The displacement D2 can be set so that the first mounting hole 21hA and the third mounting hole 22hA do not overlap in the Y direction.

[0078] The displacements D1 and D2 are different in size from each other. Therefore, the first mounting portion 21fA of the first portion 21A and the third mounting portion 22fA of the second portion 22A are arranged so as to be displaced from each other in the Y direction. The displacement in the Y direction between the first mounting portion 21fA and the third mounting portion 22fA corresponds to the interval in the Y direction between the center A1 of the first mounting hole 21hA and the center C1 of the third mounting hole 22hA.

[0079] (Second Portion)

[0080] Returning to Figure 5 , the second portion 22 of the connection member 20M is a portion that is connected to the bus bar 42 (see Figure 8 ). The second portion 22 protrudes in the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction) from the end portion (proximal end portion) on the -Z direction side of the first portion 21. The second portion 22 is a plate portion along the horizontal direction. The second portion 22 is adjacent to (coincides with) the bus bar 42 in the Z direction, and is connected to the bus bar 42 from the Z direction. The lower surface (-Z direction side surface, including the lower surface of the first portion 21) 22s of the second portion 22 opposes the upper surface (+Z direction side surface) 42s of the bus bar 42 in the Z direction. The lower surface 22s of the connection member 20M abuts against the upper surface 42s of the bus bar 42. In this state, the connection member 20M is fixed to the bus bar 42. The lower surfaces 22s, 32s, 102s of the respective connection members 20, 30, 100 of the present embodiment are sometimes collectively referred to as an opposing surface 22As that opposes the upper surface 42s of the bus bar 42 in the Z direction.

[0081] The second portion 22 of the connection member 20M is mounted to a fastening member 43 (for example, a screw or a bolt, see Figure 8 ) protruding in the +Z direction from the bus bar 42 in the Z direction, and is physically and electrically connected to the bus bar 42. In the present embodiment, the second portion 22 of the connection member 20M has a mounting hole 22h through which the fastening member 43 passes. The mounting hole 22h is open in the Z direction. The mounting hole 22h of the second portion 22 is passed through by the fastening member 43 described later. Also, the engagement member 44 (for example, a nut, see Figure 3) with the tip portion of the fastening member 43 that passes through the mounting hole 22h, and thus the second portion 22 is fixed to the bus bar 42. In the present embodiment, the one piece of the connection member 20M that forms the L shape with the first portion 21 and the second portion 22.

[0082] <3.1.3 Second Type of Electronic Component>

[0083] Figure 6 is a perspective view that shows a second type of electronic component 10N and a second type of connection member 20N. The second type of electronic component 10N is an electronic component in which two terminals 13 are arranged separately at both ends in the horizontal direction of the electronic component 10N. The electronic component 10N has, for example, a housing 11, a component main body portion 12, and a plurality of terminals 13. Furthermore, in the structure of the electronic component 10N, the same reference numerals are assigned to structures that have the same functions as the electronic component 10M. In this case, the explanation of the electronic component 10N can be made by replacing "electronic component 10M" in the above explanation of the electronic component 10M with "electronic component 10N".

[0084] In the electronic component 10N, the terminal 13A and the terminal 13B are arranged separately at both ends in the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction) of the electronic component 10N. Each terminal 13 has a mounting hole 13h in which a fastening member 72 (for example, a screw or a bolt) described later is mounted. The mounting hole 13h is open in the Z direction. For example, the mounting hole 13h of each terminal 13 is a through-hole through which the fastening member 72 passes.

[0085] <3.1.4 Second Type of Connection Member>

[0086] The second type of connection member 20N is a member that electrically connects the second type of electronic component 10N and the wiring substrate 40. In the present embodiment, the connection member 20N electrically connects the electronic component 10N and the bus bar 42 (refer to Figure 8 ) included in the wiring substrate 40. The connection member 20N has, for example, a first portion 21, a second portion 22, and a third portion 23.

[0087] (First Portion)

[0088] The first portion 21 of the connection member 20N is a portion connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N. The first portion 21 is a portion of a cuboid shape extending in the Z direction. The first portion 21 is a standing portion standing in the Z direction with respect to the wiring substrate 40 (for example, with respect to the bus bar 42). The first portion 21 is adjacent to (coincides with) the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N in the Z direction, and is connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N from the Z direction. The first portion 21 of the connection member 20N has a mounting hole 21h in which the fastening member 72 is engaged. The mounting hole 21h is open in the Z direction. The inner peripheral surface of the mounting hole 21h of the connection member 20N has a screw groove. The "mounting hole" in the present disclosure can be a threaded hole, or a through hole having no screw groove. By engaging the fastening member 72 passing through the mounting hole 13h of the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N with the mounting hole 21h of the first portion 21, the first portion 21 is physically and electrically connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N.

[0089] The connection member 20N of the present embodiment can adopt a structure as shown in Figure 17 .

[0090] (Second portion)

[0091] The second portion 22 of the connection member 20N is a portion connected to the bus bar 42 (refer to Figure 8 ). The second portion 22 protrudes in the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction) from the end portion (proximal end portion) of the first portion 21 on the -Z direction side. The second portion 22 is a plate portion along the horizontal direction. The second portion 22 is adjacent to (coincides with) the bus bar 42 in the Z direction, and is connected to the bus bar 42 from the Z direction. The lower surface (-Z direction side surface, including the lower surface of the first portion 21) 22s of the second portion 22 opposes the upper surface (+Z direction side surface) 42s of the bus bar 42 in the Z direction. The lower surface 22s of the connection member 20N abuts against the upper surface 42s of the bus bar 42. In this state, the connection member 20N is fixed to the bus bar 42.

[0092] The second portion 22 of the connection member 20N is mounted in the Z direction to the fastening member 43 (for example, a screw or a bolt, refer to Figure 8 ) protruding in the +Z direction from the bus bar 42, and is physically and electrically connected to the bus bar 42. In the present embodiment, the second portion 22 of the connection member 20N has a mounting hole 22h through which the fastening member 43 passes. The mounting hole 22h is open in the Z direction. In the second portion 22, the fastening member 43 described later passes through the mounting hole 22h. And, by engaging the engagement member 44 (for example, a nut, refer to Figure 3 ) with the end portion of the fastening member 43 passing through the mounting hole 22h, the second portion 22 is fixed to the bus bar 42.

[0093] (Third Part)

[0094] The third part 23 is a standing wall (a side wall) that stands in the +Z direction from both end portions in the horizontal direction of the second part 22. The third part 23 is a wall in the Z direction. The third part 23 is connected to the first part 21 and is connected to the second part 22. The third part 23 extends obliquely, for example, in a manner that widens in the X direction as it goes in the -Z direction. In addition, the third part 23 can also be provided to the above-described connection member 20M. On the other hand, the connection member 20N can also not have the third part 23.

[0095] <3.2 Connection Member for External Connection>

[0096] Next, the connection member 30 for external connection will be described.

[0097] Figure 7 is a perspective view that shows the connection member 30 for external connection. The connection member 30 is a member that electrically connects the external-connection bus bar 76 and the wiring substrate 40. In the present embodiment, the connection member 30 electrically connects the external-connection bus bar 76 and the bus bar 42 (refer to Figure 8 ) included in the wiring substrate 40. The external-connection bus bar 76 is electrically connected to an external device. In the present disclosure, the "external device" refers to an electrical device that exists outside the electrical connection unit 1. The external device is, for example, a battery unit mounted on a vehicle, or an inverter for motor driving of a vehicle, but is not limited to these examples. The connection member 30 has, for example, a first part 31, a second part 32, and a third part 33.

[0098] (First Part)

[0099] The first part 31 is a part that is connected to the external-connection bus bar 76. The first part 31 is a cuboid-shaped part that extends in the Z direction. The first part 31 is a standing portion that stands in the Z direction with respect to the wiring substrate 40 (for example, with respect to the bus bar 42). The first part 31 is adjacent to the external-connection bus bar 76 in the Z direction, and is connected to the external-connection bus bar 76 from the Z direction. The first part 31 has a mounting hole 31h through which a fastening member 73 (for example, a screw or a bolt) passes. The mounting hole 31h is open in the Z direction. The inner peripheral surface of the mounting hole 31h has a screw groove. The "mounting hole" in the present disclosure can be a threaded hole, or a through hole that does not have a screw groove. By engaging the fastening member 73 that passes through the mounting hole 76h of the external-connection bus bar 76 with the mounting hole 31h of the first part 31, the first part 31 is physically and electrically connected to the external-connection bus bar 76.

[0100] The structure that the connection member 30 of the present embodiment can adopt is as shown in Figure 17indicated.

[0101] (Second Part)

[0102] The second part 32 is a part connected to the bus bar 42 (refer to Figure 8 ). The second part 32 protrudes in the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction) from the end (proximal end) on the -Z direction side of the first part 31. The second part 32 is a plate portion in the horizontal direction. The second part 32 is adjacent to (coincides with) the bus bar 42 in the Z direction, and is connected to the bus bar 42 in the Z direction. The lower surface (-Z direction side surface, including the lower surface of the first part 31) 32s of the second part 32 opposes the upper surface (+Z direction side surface) 42s of the bus bar 42 in the Z direction. The lower surface 32s of the connection member 30 abuts against the upper surface 42s of the bus bar 42. In this state, the connection member 30 is fixed to the bus bar 42.

[0103] The second part 32 of the connection member 30 is mounted in the Z direction to the fastening member 43 (for example, a screw or a bolt, refer to Figure 8 ) protruding in the +Z direction from the bus bar 42, and is physically and electrically connected to the bus bar 42. In the present embodiment, the second part 32 has a mounting hole 32h through which the fastening member 43 passes. The mounting hole 32h is open in the Z direction. In the second part 32, the fastening member 43 described later passes through the mounting hole 32h. Also, by causing the engagement member 44 (for example, a nut, refer to Figure 3 ) to engage with the end portion of the fastening member 43 that passes through the mounting hole 32h, the second part 32 is fixed to the bus bar 42.

[0104] (Third Part)

[0105] The third part 33 is a standing wall (side wall) that stands up in the +Z direction from both ends in the horizontal direction of the second part 32. The third part 33 is a wall in the Z direction. The third part 33 is connected to the first part 31, and is connected to the second part 32. The third part 33, for example, extends obliquely in such a manner as to widen in the X direction (or the Y direction) as it goes in the -Z direction. In addition, the connection member 30 can also not have the third part 33.

[0106] <3.3 Wiring Substrate>

[0107] Next, the wiring substrate 40 will be described.

[0108] Figure 8is a perspective view showing the wiring substrate 40. The wiring substrate 40 is a component that forms at least a part of an electrical path between a plurality of electronic components 10 and / or at least a part of an electrical path between the electronic component 10 and an external device. In the present disclosure, the "wiring substrate" refers to a wiring structure body of a substrate type. The "substrate type" refers to a plate shape along one plane in a case of a whole view regardless of a fine shape. Note that, in the present disclosure, the "plate shape", "sheet shape", or "plane" is not limited to a case of being completely flat, and can include a case where a fixed structure, a rib, or the like that protrudes in the Z direction is locally present, a case where a concave-convex shape that follows a thickness of a bus bar is present on a surface, or the like. In the present embodiment, the wiring substrate 40 is a plate shape along the X direction and the Y direction.

[0109] The wiring substrate 40 includes, for example, a base plate 41, one or more (for example, a plurality of) bus bars 42, and a plurality of fastening components 43. In the present embodiment, the base plate 41 and the plurality of bus bars 42 are integrated by insert molding. For example, after the fastening components 43 are fixed to the bus bars 42, the bus bars 42 are insert molded with the base plate 41, and thus the wiring substrate 40 is formed as one sheet-shaped component. That is, the bus bars 42 are integrated with the base plate 41 without using fastening components such as screws or bolts. In addition, the wiring substrate 40 can also be formed by other structures instead of insert molding. For example, it can be a structure in which the wiring substrate 40 formed separately from the bus bars 42 forms an opening (corresponding to a housing portion 55 described later) that can secure the bus bars 42 by embedding or the like, and the bus bars 42 are secured in the opening to form a bus bar embedding plate.

[0110] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing a part of the wiring substrate 40. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the base plate 41, the bus bar 42, and the fastening component 43 are described with reference to the drawing in which the wiring substrate 40 is partially disassembled.

[0111] (Base plate)

[0112] The base plate 41 is a holding component that integrally holds a plurality of bus bars 42 arranged in the horizontal direction at intervals from each other. The base plate 41 is made of, for example, synthetic resin, and has insulating properties. The base plate 41 electrically insulates between the plurality of bus bars 42. The base plate 41 is an example of a "base component". The base plate 41 can also be referred to as an "insulating base material". The base plate 41 has, for example, a planar portion 51 and a plurality of fixing portions 52.

[0113] The flat portion 51 is a portion formed in the base plate 41 in a plate shape. The flat portion 51 is in a plate shape along the horizontal direction. The flat portion 51 forms a main portion of the base plate 41. The flat portion 51 forms a base portion (insulating base portion) of the base plate 41. In the present embodiment, the flat portion 51 extends over the entire range in the X direction of the base plate 41, and over the entire range in the Y direction of the base plate 41, except for the four corner portions of the base plate 41.

[0114] The flat portion 51 has a first face 51a and a second face 51b. The first face 51a is a surface facing the +Z direction. The first face 51a is a plane along the horizontal direction. The first face 51a faces the plurality of electronic components 10, and faces the insulating cover 93 (refer to Figure 1 ) of the electric connection unit 1. The second face 51b is located on the side opposite the first face 51a. The second face 51b is a surface facing the -Z direction. The second face 51b is a plane along the horizontal direction. The second face 51b faces the metal plate 80 (refer to Figure 1 ). The thickness direction (plate thickness direction) of the flat portion 51 is the Z direction.

[0115] The flat portion 51 has, for example, one or more (for example, a plurality of) housing portions 55 that house the bus bars 42, respectively. The plurality of housing portions 55 are formed separately from each other in the X direction or the Y direction. Each housing portion 55 is, for example, a through-hole that penetrates the flat portion 51 in the Z direction. Note that the housing portion 55 can also not be a through-hole but a recess provided to the first face 51a or the second face 51b of the flat portion 51 and recessed in the Z direction. Note that in the present disclosure, “the housing portion penetrates the flat portion in the first direction (Z direction)” can also include a case where a part of the entire length of the housing portion 55 penetrates the flat portion 51 in the Z direction (for example, the remaining part of the housing portion 55 can be a recess recessed in the Z direction, or can be a form in which it is provided inside the base plate 41 without being exposed to the outside of the base plate 41). Also, in the present disclosure, “the housing portion is recessed in the first direction (Z direction)” can also include a case where a part of the entire length of the housing portion 55 is recessed in the Z direction (for example, the remaining part of the housing portion 55 can be a through-hole that penetrates the flat portion 51 in the Z direction, or can be a form in which it is provided inside the base plate 41 without being exposed to the outside of the base plate 41).

[0116] Each of the accommodation portions 55 has an outer shape corresponding to the shape of the accommodated bus bars 42 when viewed from the Z direction. In the present embodiment, the planar portion 51 includes, for example, five accommodation portions 55A, 55B, 55C, 55D, 55E as the plurality of accommodation portions 55. The accommodation portion 55A is provided corresponding to the bus bar 42A described later and accommodates the bus bar 42A. The accommodation portion 55B is provided corresponding to the bus bar 42B described later and accommodates the bus bar 42B. The accommodation portion 55C is provided corresponding to the bus bar 42C described later and accommodates the bus bar 42C. The accommodation portion 55D is provided corresponding to the bus bar 42D described later and accommodates the bus bar 42D. The accommodation portion 55E is provided corresponding to the bus bar 42E described later and accommodates the bus bar 42E.

[0117] (bus bar)

[0118] The bus bars 42 are wiring members (electrical connection members) included in the wiring substrate 40. The bus bars 42 are, for example, wiring members for electrically connecting a plurality of electronic components 10. Alternatively, the bus bars 42 can be wiring members for connecting the electronic components 10 with external devices. The bus bars 42 are made of metal (for example, copper or copper alloy) and have electrical conductivity. In the present embodiment, the wiring substrate 40 has, for example, five bus bars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, 42E as the plurality of bus bars 42. The five bus bars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, 42E are arranged in the horizontal direction at intervals from each other. The five bus bars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, 42E include portions arranged on the same plane. The five bus bars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, 42E are held by the planar portion 51 of the base plate 41.

[0119] At least a portion of each of the bus bars 42 is plate-shaped along the horizontal direction. At least a portion of each of the bus bars 42 is accommodated in the accommodation portion 55 and extends along the planar portion 51. That is, at least a portion of each of the bus bars 42 extends along the first face 51a of the planar portion 51. At least a portion of each of the bus bars 42 extends in the horizontal direction within the accommodation portion 55. In the present embodiment, each of the bus bars 42 is plate-shaped along the horizontal direction throughout the entirety of the bus bar 42. Each of the bus bars 42 is accommodated in the accommodation portion 55 and extends along the planar portion 51 throughout the entire length of the bus bar 42. Hereinafter, a portion of each of the bus bars 42 that is accommodated in the accommodation portion 55 and extends along the planar portion 51 will sometimes be referred to as a "plate portion 42p". The bus bars 42 are members that form a current path in the horizontal direction. The bus bars 42 can also be referred to as "horizontal wiring members".

[0120] Figure 10 is a plan view showing the wiring substrate 40. The plate portion 42p of each of the bus bars 42 has, for example, a first connection portion 61, a second connection portion 62, and an extension portion 63.

[0121] The first connection portion 61 is a portion that contacts one connection member 20 (hereinafter referred to as "first connection member 20"). The first connection member 20 is a connection member that connects one electronic component 10 (hereinafter referred to as "first electronic component 10") to the bus bar 42. The first connection portion 61 is a portion of the bus bar 42 that overlaps the first connection member 20 when viewed in the Z direction. The first connection portion 61 is adjacent to the first connection member 20 in the Z direction, and is connected to the first connection member 20 from the Z direction.

[0122] The second connection portion 62 is a portion that contacts another connection member 20 (hereinafter referred to as "second connection member 20"). The second connection member 20 is a connection member that connects another electronic component 10 (hereinafter referred to as "second electronic component 10") included in the plurality of electronic components 10 to the bus bar 42. The second connection portion 62 is a portion of the bus bar 42 that overlaps the second connection member 20 when viewed in the Z direction. The second connection portion 62 is adjacent to the second connection member 20 in the Z direction, and is connected to the second connection member 20 from the Z direction.

[0123] In addition, the second connection portion 62 can be a portion that contacts another connection member 30 (hereinafter referred to as "second connection member 30") instead of the above example. The connection member 30 is a connection member for connecting an external device to the bus bar 42. In this case, the second connection portion 62 is a portion of the bus bar 42 that overlaps the second connection member 30 when viewed in the Z direction. The second connection portion 62 is adjacent to the second connection member 30 in the Z direction, and is connected to the second connection member 30 from the Z direction.

[0124] In addition, the second connection portion 62 can be a portion that does not contact the connection member 20, 30 and contacts a link bus bar 75 for connection to another subunit SU. In this case, the second connection portion 62 is a portion of the bus bar 42 that overlaps the link bus bar 75 when viewed in the Z direction. The second connection portion 62 is adjacent to the link bus bar 75 in the Z direction, and is connected to the link bus bar 75 from the Z direction.

[0125] The extension portion 63 extends from the first connection portion 61 in the X direction or the Y direction. The extension portion 63 is provided between the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62. The extension portion 63 extends so as to straddle the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62. The extension portion 63 connects the first connection portion 61 to the second connection portion 62.

[0126] In the present embodiment, the first connecting portion 61, the second connecting portion 62, and the extension portion 63 are plate-shaped in the horizontal direction. In the present embodiment, each bus bar 42 is housed in the housing portion 55 and extends along the planar portion 51 at least over the first connecting portion 61 and the second connecting portion 62. For example, the first connecting portion 61, the second connecting portion 62, and the extension portion 63 are housed in the housing portion 55 and extend along the planar portion 51.

[0127] In the present embodiment, the extension portion 63 of some of the bus bars 42 is housed in the housing portion 55, thereby extending in a manner that passes through the region R overlapping the electronic component 10 when viewed in the Z direction and across both sides of the region R. For example, the extension portion 63 has a portion extending linearly in the X direction. This portion extends in a manner that passes through the region R overlapping the electronic component 10 when viewed in the Z direction and across the +X direction side and the -X direction side of the region R. That is, the bus bar 42, because it is housed in the housing portion 55, is not hindered by the presence of the electronic component 10 and is easily routed in a better path (for example, a path with a shorter distance).

[0128] In addition, one or more of the bus bars 42 can have an extension portion 64 in addition to the first connecting portion 61, the second connecting portion 62, and the extension portion 63. The extension portion 64 is a portion in which the bus bar 42 is extended or branched for the purpose of expanding the heat dissipation area and / or expanding the heat capacity for heat storage (heat absorption). The extension portion 64 is a portion that is not used for electrical connection. For example, the extension portion 64 is located on the side opposite the extension portion 63 with respect to the first connecting portion 61 (or the second connecting portion 62). The extension portion 64 is plate-shaped in the horizontal direction. The extension portion 64 is housed in the housing portion 55 and extends along the planar portion 51. The extension portion 64 extends to the region R overlapping the electronic component 10 when viewed in the Z direction, and has an end portion 42e1 of the bus bar 42 at a position overlapping the electronic component 10 when viewed in the Z direction.

[0129] (Fastening member)

[0130] Next, referring back to Figure 9 The fastening member 43 will be described. The fastening member 43 is a member for fixing the bus bar 42 and a connection target member (the connection member 20, the connection member 30, or the bus bar 75) of the bus bar 42. The fastening member 43 is, for example, a rivet bolt fixed to the bus bar 42. The fastening member 43 is an example of a "fastening portion".

[0131] In the present embodiment, the first connecting portion 61 and the second connecting portion 62 of the bus bar 42 each have a through-hole 42h. The through-hole 42h penetrates the bus bar 42 in the Z direction. The fastening member 43 is, for example, a bolt having a shaft portion 43a and a head portion 43b. The peripheral surface of the shaft portion 43a has a screw groove. The diameter of the head portion 43b is larger than the diameter of the shaft portion 43a. The fastening member 43 is, in a state where the shaft portion 43a penetrates the through-hole 42h of the bus bar 42, the head portion 43b is rivet-fixed to the bus bar 42. By this fixation, the fastening member 43 is electrically and physically connected to the bus bar 42 in a state where the shaft portion 43a protrudes from the through-hole 42h of the bus bar 42 in the +Z direction. Note that the fastening member 43 is not limited to rivet-fixation, but can be fixed to the bus bar 42 by welding or other methods.

[0132] In the present embodiment, the connecting member 20 is mounted to the fastening member 43 in a state where the electronic member 10 is first fixed by the fastening member 71 or the fastening member 72. For example, the connecting member 20 has the shaft portion 43a of the fastening member 43 inserted into the mounting hole 22h of the second portion 22. Then, the engaging member 44 (e.g., a nut) is engaged with the shaft portion 43a of the fastening member 43 protruding from the mounting hole 22h of the second portion 22 of the connecting member 20. The engaging member 44 is mounted to the shaft portion 43a in the Z direction, for example. By this engagement, the second portion 22 of the connecting member 20 is fixed to the fastening member 43.

[0133] <4. Metal plate, insulating sheet, heat conducting member, and insulating cover>

[0134] Next, the metal plate 80, the insulating sheet 91, the heat conducting member 92, and the insulating cover 93 will be described.

[0135] <4.1 Metal plate>

[0136] Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the electrical connection unit 1. The metal plate 80 is a member for ensuring the rigidity of the electrical connection unit 1 and improving the heat dissipation of the electrical connection unit 1. The metal plate 80 is made of metal (e.g., made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy). The metal plate 80 can also be referred to as a “rigidity member”. The metal plate 80 is a single metal plate.

[0137] The metal plate 80 is a rectangular shape in the X direction when viewed from the Z direction. The metal plate 80 has a first end portion 80e1, a second end portion 80e2, a third end portion 80e3, and a fourth end portion 80e4. The first end portion 80e1 and the second end portion 80e2 are a pair of end portions in the long side direction of the metal plate 80 and are separated in the X direction. The third end portion 80e3 and the fourth end portion 80e4 are a pair of end portions in the short side direction of the metal plate 80 and are separated in the Y direction. The metal plate 80 includes, for example, a flat portion 81, a plurality of fixing portions 82, and a plurality of fixing portions 83.

[0138] The flat portion 81 is a portion formed in a plate shape in the metal plate 80. The flat portion 81 is in a plate shape in the horizontal direction. The flat portion 81 forms a main portion of the metal plate 80. The flat portion 81 forms a base portion (metal base portion) of the metal plate 80. In the present embodiment, the flat portion 81 has a size that covers three sub-units SU from below. The flat portion 81 faces the wiring substrate 40 of the three sub-units SU. In the present embodiment, the metal plate 80 leaves a gap S1 (refer to FIG. 6) between the flat portion 81 and the second face 51b of the flat portion 51 of each sub-unit SU, and faces the second face 51b of the flat portion 51 of each sub-unit SU. Figure 13

[0139] The fixing portion 82 is a fixing portion for fixing the base plate 41 of each sub-unit SU to the metal plate 80. The fixing portion 82 is provided at a position corresponding to the fixing portion 52 of the base plate 41 of each sub-unit SU when viewed from the Z direction. The fixing portion 82 is a cylindrical or prismatic boss that protrudes in the +Z direction from the flat portion 81 of the metal plate 80.

[0140] The fixing portion 83 is a fixing portion for fixing the electronic component 10 of each sub-unit SU directly to the metal plate 80 without passing through the base plate 41. The fixing portion 83 is provided at a position corresponding to the mounting portion 14 of the electronic component 10 of each sub-unit SU when viewed from the Z direction. The fixing portion 83 is a cylindrical or prismatic boss that protrudes in the +Z direction from the flat portion 81.

[0141] <4.2 Insulating sheet>

[0142] The insulating sheet 91 is an insulating member for electrically insulating the metal plate 80 from the bus bar 42 of each sub-unit SU. The insulating sheet 91 is made of, for example, a synthetic resin such as polyester or polyimide, and has insulating properties. The insulating sheet 91 is a rectangular shape when viewed from the Z direction. The insulating sheet 91 is in a sheet shape in the horizontal direction. The insulating sheet 91 is disposed between the flat portion 81 of the metal plate 80 and the wiring substrate 40 of each sub-unit SU. For example, the insulating sheet 91 is disposed between the flat portion 81 of the metal plate 80 and the plurality of heat conductive members 92.

[0143] ​In the present embodiment, the insulating sheet 91 is attached to the planar portion 81 of the metal plate 80. The insulating sheet 91 has a cutout or an opening for avoiding the fixing portions 82 and 83 of the metal plate 80. Further, the insulating sheet 91 can be provided between the wiring substrate 40 of each subunit SU and the plurality of thermally conductive members 92 instead of the above-described example. Further, in a case where the thermally conductive members 92 are insulating and necessary insulation is ensured by the thermally conductive members 92, the insulating sheet 91 can be omitted.

[0144] <4.3 Thermally conductive member>

[0145] The thermally conductive member 92 is a member for transferring heat emitted from the electronic component 10 at the time of energization and / or heat (Joule heat) emitted from the bus bar 42 itself at the time of energization to the metal plate 80. The thermally conductive member 92 is, for example, a thermally conductive sheet (for example, a thermally conductive silicone sheet) having elasticity. However, the thermally conductive member 92 is not limited to the above-described example, and can be a thermally conductive member formed of a thermally conductive gel or another material.

[0146] Figure 12 is a plan view showing the wiring substrate 40. In the present embodiment, the plurality of thermally conductive members 92 are provided locally in the wiring substrate 40. For example, the plurality of thermally conductive members 92 are disposed at positions overlapping a part of the bus bar 42 when viewed in the Z direction. Further, the plurality of thermally conductive members 92 are disposed at positions overlapping a part of the bus bar 42 in the vicinity of the electronic component 10 (for example, the electronic components 10A and 10B) when viewed in the Z direction. In the present embodiment, the plurality of thermally conductive members 92 are disposed at positions overlapping the connection member 20 when viewed in the Z direction.

[0147] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along the A-A line of the structure shown in Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the A-A line of the structure shown in

[0148] In the present embodiment, a part of the thermally conductive member 92 is in contact with the bus bar 42 at a position overlapping the connection member 20 when viewed in the Z direction. In this case, the thermally conductive member 92 easily transfers heat transferred from the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 to the connection member 20 to the metal plate 80 via the bus bar 42 from the connection member 20.

[0149] In addition, in the present embodiment, a portion of the thermally conductive member 92 is disposed at a position overlapping the head portion 43b of the fastening member 43 when viewed in the Z direction, and is in contact with the head portion 43b of the fastening member 43. In this case, the thermally conductive member 92 easily transmits heat transmitted from the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 to the connection member 20 from the fastening member 43 to the metal plate 80.

[0150] In addition, in the present embodiment, a portion of the thermally conductive member 92 is in contact with the bus bar 42 at a position overlapping the electronic component 10 when viewed in the Z direction. In this case, the thermally conductive member 92 easily transmits heat transmitted from the electronic component 10 to the bus bar 42 from the bus bar 42 to the metal plate 80. In Figure 13 In the example illustrated, the upper surface of the bus bar 42 is in contact with the electronic component 10, and thus the bus bar 42 is thermally connected to the electronic component 10. In addition, the portion of the bus bar 42 that is thermally connected to the electronic component 10 can be the extension portion 63, or can be the extension portion 64.

[0151] <4.4 Insulating Cover>

[0152] Returning to Figure 1 An insulating cover 93 will be described. The insulating cover 93 is a member for preventing contact with the energization path of the main body portion MU. The insulating cover 93 is, for example, made of synthetic resin, and has insulating properties. The insulating cover 93 is, for example, a box shape that is open on the -Z direction side. The insulating cover 93 has a plurality of air holes 93h. The insulating cover 93 is mounted along the Z direction with respect to the metal plate 80. In addition, the insulating cover 93 is not limited to a box-shaped member, and can be a sheet-shaped member that covers the energization path of the main body portion MU.

[0153] <5. Exposed Structure of Bus Bar>

[0154] Next, an exposed structure of the bus bar 42 will be described.

[0155] <5.1 Exposed Structure on the Upper Surface Side of Bus Bar>

[0156] First, with reference to Figure 8 An exposed structure on the upper surface side of the bus bar 42 will be described. In the present embodiment, at least a portion of the extension portion 63 of the bus bar 42 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the upper surface side (the first face 51a side of the planar portion 51). For example, the extension portion 63 of the bus bar 42 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the upper surface side at least in a portion of the region R (refer to FIG. 6) overlapping the electronic component 10 when viewed in the Z direction. Figure 10

[0157] ​In the present embodiment, the bus bar 42 is housed in the housing portion 55 and extends along the first face 51a of the planar portion 51 at least over the entire length between the first connecting portion 61 and the second connecting portion 62. The bus bar 42 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the upper face side at least over the entire length between the first connecting portion 61 and the second connecting portion 62.

[0158] In the present embodiment, the bus bar 42 is housed in the housing portion 55 and extends along the first face 51a of the planar portion 51 over the entire length of the bus bar 42. The bus bar 42 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the upper face side over the entire length of the bus bar 42.

[0159] As shown in Figure 13 , at least a portion of the extension portion 63 of the bus bar 42 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the lower face side (the second face 51b side) in addition to the upper face side. For example, the bus bar 42 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the lower face side over the entire length of the bus bar 42.

[0160] <5.2 Exposure structure of lower face side of bus bar>

[0161] Next, the exposure structure of the lower face side of the bus bar 42 will be described with reference to Figure 13 . In the present embodiment, the plate portion 42p of the bus bar 42 includes an exposed portion 42u exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the lower face side (the second face 51b side) of the planar portion 51. In the present embodiment, the exposed portion 42u of the bus bar 42 extends over the entire length of the bus bar 42. In the present embodiment, the thermally conductive member 92 is disposed between the exposed portion 42u of the bus bar 42 and the metal plate 80. For example, the thermally conductive member 92 is in contact with the exposed portion 42u of the bus bar 42.

[0162] In the present embodiment, at least a portion of the exposed portion 42u of the bus bar 42 is provided in a region overlapping the connecting member 20 when viewed in the Z direction. At least a portion of the thermally conductive member 92 overlaps the exposed portion 42u of the bus bar 42 in the region overlapping the connecting member 20 when viewed in the Z direction. For example, at least a portion of the thermally conductive member 92 is in contact with the exposed portion 42u of the bus bar 42 in the region overlapping the connecting member 20 when viewed in the Z direction.

[0163] In the present embodiment, the exposed portion 42u of the bus bar 42 includes a first portion 42ua disposed in a region overlapping the connecting member 20 when viewed in the Z direction and a second portion 42ub disposed in a region overlapping the electronic member 10 when viewed in the Z direction.

[0164] The thermally conductive member 92 includes a first thermally conductive portion 92a and a second thermally conductive portion 92b. The first thermally conductive portion 92a overlaps the first portion 42ua of the exposed portion 42u of the bus bar 42 in a region overlapping the connecting member 20 when viewed in the Z direction. For example, the first thermally conductive portion 92a is in contact with the first portion 42ua of the exposed portion 42u of the bus bar 42. On the other hand, the second thermally conductive portion 92b overlaps the second portion 42ub of the exposed portion 42u of the bus bar 42 in a region overlapping the electronic member 10 when viewed in the Z direction. For example, the second thermally conductive portion 92b is in contact with the second portion 42ub of the exposed portion 42u of the bus bar 42.

[0165] Note that, as described above, at least a portion of the extension portion 63 of the bus bar 42 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the upper surface side (first surface 51a side) in addition to the lower surface side. For example, the bus bar 42 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the upper surface side throughout the entire length of the bus bar 42. For example, the second portion 42ub of the exposed portion 42u of the bus bar 42 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the upper surface side in addition to the lower surface side and faces the electronic member 10.

[0166] <6. Stereoscopic wiring structure of bus bar>

[0167] Next, the stereoscopic wiring structure CS of the bus bar 42 will be described.

[0168] Figure 14 is a perspective view illustrating the stereoscopic wiring structure CS of the bus bar 42. Figure 15 is a plan view illustrating the stereoscopic wiring structure CS of the bus bar 42. The stereoscopic wiring structure CS has the bus bar 42F, the bus bar 42G, the bus bar 42H, and the bus bar 42I as the plurality of bus bars 42. In addition, the stereoscopic wiring structure CS includes a plurality of connecting members 100. In addition, the stereoscopic cross structure CS includes the link bus bar 75C and the link bus bar 75D as the plurality of link bus bars 75.

[0169] The bus bar 42F and the bus bar 42G are, for example, bus bars 42 included in the sub unit SUY. The planar portion 51 of the base plate 41 of the sub unit SUY has the housing portion 55F and the housing portion 55G as the plurality of housing portions 55. The bus bar 42F is housed in the housing portion 55F and extends along the planar portion 51. The bus bar 42G is housed in the housing portion 55G and extends along the planar portion 51. The bus bar 42F is an example of a "first bus bar". The housing portion 55F housing the bus bar 42F is an example of a "first housing portion". The bus bar 42G is an example of a "fourth bus bar". The housing portion 55G housing the bus bar 42G is an example of a "fourth housing portion". The bus bar 42F and the bus bar 42G are bus bars 42 located at a first layer (lower layer) in the stereoscopic wiring structure CS.

[0170] In the present embodiment, the bus bar 42F has a first portion 42Fa extending in the X direction and a second portion 42Fb bent from the first portion 42Fa and extending in the Y direction. The second portion 42Fb extends along the boundary B of the sub-units SUY and SUZ.

[0171] On the other hand, the bus bar 42H and the bus bar 42I are, for example, bus bars 42 included in the sub-unit SUZ. The planar portion 51 of the base plate 41 of the sub-unit SUZ has the accommodation portion 55H and the accommodation portion 55I as the plurality of accommodation portions 55. The bus bar 42H is accommodated in the accommodation portion 55H and extends along the planar portion 51. The bus bar 42I is accommodated in the accommodation portion 55I and extends along the planar portion 51. The bus bar 42H and the bus bar 42I are bus bars 42 located in the first layer (lower layer) in the three-dimensional wiring structure CS.

[0172] The connection member 100 has the same structure as the above-described connection member 30 for external connection. For example, the connection member 100 has a first portion 101, a second portion 102, and a third portion 103. Furthermore, as for the details of the connection member 100, in the description related to the above-described connection member 30, it is possible to replace “connection member 30” with “connection member 100”, “first portion 31” with “first portion 101”, “mounting hole 31h” with “mounting hole 101h”, “second portion 32” with “second portion 102”, “mounting hole 32h” with “mounting hole 102h”, and “third portion 33” with “third portion 103”. The connection member 100 is a member that forms a power supply path in the vertical direction. The connection member 100 can also be referred to as a “vertical wiring member”. Figure 14 The reference sign 102s in FIG. 10 indicates a lower surface of the second portion 102 of the connection member 100 (including the lower surface of the first portion 101). The lower surface 102s opposes the upper surface 42s of the bus bar 42 in the Z direction.

[0173] The plurality of connection members 100 includes a connection member 100A and a connection member 100B. The connection member 100A overlaps the second connection portion 62 of the bus bar 42G in the sub-unit SUY when viewed in the Z direction. The connection member 100A is adjacent to the second connection portion 62 of the bus bar 42G in the Z direction and is connected to the second connection portion 62 of the bus bar 42G from the Z direction. The connection member 100A stands up in the +Z direction from the bus bar 42G.

[0174] The connecting member 100B overlaps the second connecting portion 62 of the bus bar 42I in the sub unit SUZ when viewed in the Z direction. The connecting member 100B is adjacent to the second connecting portion 62 of the bus bar 42I in the Z direction and is connected to the second connecting portion 62 of the bus bar 42I from the Z direction. The connecting member 100B stands up from the bus bar 42I in the +Z direction.

[0175] The one end portion of the link bus bar 75C is adjacent to the second connecting portion 62 of the bus bar 42F in the Z direction in the sub unit SUY and is connected to the second connecting portion 62 of the bus bar 42F from the Z direction. The other end portion of the link bus bar 75C is adjacent to the second connecting portion 62 of the bus bar 42H in the Z direction in the sub unit SUZ and is connected to the second connecting portion 62 of the bus bar 42H from the Z direction. According to this structure, the bus bar 42F of the sub unit SUY and the bus bar 42H of the sub unit SUZ are electrically connected via the link bus bar 75C. The link bus bar 75C is a bus bar 75 located in the first layer (lower layer) in the three-dimensional wiring structure CS.

[0176] On the other hand, the link bus bar 75D is adjacent to the first portion 101 of the connecting member 100A in the Z direction in the sub unit SUY and is connected to the first portion 101 of the connecting member 100A from the Z direction. The other end portion of the link bus bar 75D is adjacent to the first portion 101 of the connecting member 100B in the Z direction in the sub unit SUZ and is connected to the first portion 101 of the connecting member 100B from the Z direction.

[0177] The link bus bar 75D is supported by the first portion 101 of the connecting member 100A and the first portion 101 of the connecting member 100B at a position away from the bus bar 42F in the Z direction. The link bus bar 75D is supported by the first portion 101 of the connecting member 100A and the first portion 101 of the connecting member 100B and extends along the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction). The link bus bar 75D is electrically connected to the first portion 101 of the connecting member 100A and the first portion 101 of the connecting member 100B. According to this structure, the bus bar 42F of the sub unit SUY and the bus bar 42I of the sub unit SUZ are electrically connected via the two connecting members 100 and the link bus bar 75D.

[0178] In the present embodiment, the link bus bar 75D extends in a manner of straddling the second portion 42Fb of the bus bar 42F at a position away from the bus bar 42F in the +Z direction. Thereby, a three-dimensional intersection structure is formed by the link bus bar 75D and the bus bar 42F. In the present embodiment, the link bus bar 75D extends in a manner of straddling the boundary B of the plurality of sub units SU.

[0179] In the present embodiment, the three-dimensional wiring structure CS of the bus bar 42 is provided at a position that straddles the boundary B of the plurality of sub-units SU. According to this arrangement, the connection structure between the plurality of sub-units SU is reinforced by the three-dimensional wiring structure CS. In addition, the three-dimensional wiring structure CS of the bus bar 42 can also not be provided at the boundary B of the plurality of sub-units SU, but can be provided inside one or more of the sub-units SU.

[0180] <7. Related structure of connection member>

[0181] Next, a structure related to the connection member 20 will be described.

[0182] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a structure related to the connection member 20. In the present embodiment, the connection member 20 (for example, the connection member 20M and the connection member 20N) is a heat storage member (heat absorbing member) that increases the heat capacity of the power supply path of the electrical connection unit 1. The connection member 20, for example, stores (absorbs) at least a portion of the heat emitted by the electronic component 10. Instead of or in addition to this, the connection member 20 can store (absorb) at least a portion of the heat emitted by the bus bar 42 itself due to the passage of electric current. The connection member 20 can also be referred to as a "heat storage member" or a "heat absorbing member".

[0183] In the present embodiment, the bus bar 42 is disposed at a position that is away from the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 (for example, a position that is away in the Z direction). The connection member 20 is disposed between the electronic component 10 and the bus bar 42. In the present application, "the connection member is disposed between the electronic component and the bus bar" is not limited to a case where a portion of the connection member is located between the electronic component and the bus bar when viewed in the X direction or the Y direction. "The connection member is disposed between the electronic component and the bus bar" can also correspond to a case where a portion of the connection member is located between the electronic component and the bus bar when viewed in a direction that is inclined with respect to the X direction or the Y direction. The connection member 20 electrically connects the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 and the bus bar 42.

[0184] In the present embodiment, at least a portion of the connecting member 20 has a thickness larger than the plate thickness (thickness in the Z direction) T3 of the bus bar 42. For example, at least a portion of the connecting member 20 has a thickness T1 in the X direction larger than the plate thickness T3 of the bus bar 42. In the present embodiment, the first portion 21 of the connecting member 20 has a thickness T1 in the X direction larger than the plate thickness T3 of the bus bar 42. In the present embodiment, the first portion 21 has a thickness T1 larger than the plate thickness T3 of the bus bar 42 as a thickness in the X direction, throughout the entire length of the first portion 21 in the Z direction. The thickness T1 in the X direction of the first portion 21 of the connecting member 20 is, for example, 2 times or more the plate thickness T3 of the bus bar 42. Also, in other cases, the thickness T2 in the Z direction of the second portion 22 of the connecting member 20 can be larger than the plate thickness T3 of the bus bar 42.

[0185] In the present embodiment, the thickness T1 in the X direction of the first portion 21 of the connecting member 20 is larger than the thickness T2 in the Z direction of the second portion 22 of the connecting member 20. In the present embodiment, the first portion 21 has a thickness T1 larger than the thickness T2 in the Z direction of the second portion 22 as a thickness in the X direction, throughout the entire length of the first portion 21 in the Z direction. Thereby, as shown in FIG. 10, it is easy to form the mounting holes 21hB, 21hC within the thickness T1 of the first portion 21, and the heat storage capacity of the first portion 21 and even the connecting member 20 is increased. Figure 17

[0186] Further, the above-described dimensional relationships are the same in the connecting member 30 connected to the external connection bus bar 76 and / or the connecting member 100 connected to the link bus bar 75. For example, regarding the connecting member 30, in the above-described explanation regarding the connecting member 20, "connecting member 20" is replaced with "connecting member 30", "first portion 21" is replaced with "first portion 31", and "second portion 22" is replaced with "second portion 32". Similarly, regarding the connecting member 100, in the above-described explanation regarding the connecting member 20, "connecting member 20" is replaced with "connecting member 100", "first portion 21" is replaced with "first portion 101", and "second portion 22" is replaced with "second portion 102".

[0187] <8. Advantages of the present embodiment>

[0188] <A. Advantages of the wiring substrate>

[0189] As a comparative example, an electrical connection unit is considered in which the bus bar is disposed in a posture standing up with respect to the lower wall of the housing. In the structure of such a comparative example, sometimes the electrical connection unit is difficult to be thin due to the width of the bus bar standing up.

[0190] ​On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the electric connection unit 1 has the first electronic component 10 and the wiring substrate 40. The wiring substrate 40 includes the base plate 41 and the first bus bar 42. The base plate 41 has a plate-shaped flat portion 51 having a first surface 51a facing the first electronic component 10. The flat portion 51 has a first housing portion 55 recessed in the Z direction or penetrating the flat portion 51 in the Z direction. At least a portion of the first bus bar 42 is housed in the first housing portion 55 and extends along the flat portion 51. According to such a structure, at least a portion of the wiring path is formed in the plane, and compared with the structure of the above-described comparative example, the bus bar is less likely to affect the height direction, and thinning of the electric connection unit 1 is easily achieved.

[0191] In the present embodiment, the electric connection unit 1 has the first connection component 20. The first connection component 20 includes a portion standing with respect to the first bus bar 42, and electrically connects the first electronic component 10 and the first bus bar 42. The first bus bar 42 has a first connection portion 61 in contact with the first connection component 20. The first connection portion 61 is housed in the first housing portion 55 and extends along the flat portion 51. According to such a structure, a further portion of the wiring path is formed in the plane, and thus thinning of the electric connection unit 1 is more easily achieved.

[0192] In the present embodiment, the electric connection unit 1 has the second connection component 20. The second connection component 20 includes a portion standing with respect to the first bus bar 42, and electrically connects the second electronic component or the external device and the first bus bar 42. The first bus bar 42 has a second connection portion 62 in contact with the second connection component 20. The first bus bar 42 is housed in the first housing portion 55 and extends along the flat portion 51 at least over the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62. According to such a structure, a further portion of the wiring path is formed in the plane, and thus thinning of the electric connection unit 1 is more easily achieved.

[0193] In the present embodiment, the first bus bar 42 has an extension portion 63 between the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62. The extension portion 63 is housed in the first housing portion 55 so as to extend across an area R overlapping the electronic component 10 when viewed in the Z direction and both sides of the area R. According to such a structure, by housing the extension portion 63 in the first housing portion 55, the wiring layout is less likely to be restricted by the presence of the electronic component 10. Thus, a wiring layout more favorable in terms of electrical characteristics, such as easy extension of the extension portion 63 in a straight line, can be achieved. In addition, wiring of the bus bar around the electronic component 10 can be avoided. Thus, improvement of the electrical characteristics of the electric connection unit 1 and / or thinning of the electric connection unit 1 can be achieved.

[0194] In the present embodiment, the first bus bar 42 has an extension portion 64 that extends to the region R overlapping the first electronic component 10 when viewed in the Z direction, and has an end portion 42el at a position overlapping the first electronic component 10. The extension portion 64 is housed in the first housing portion 55 and extends along the planar portion 51. According to such a structure, by housing the extension portion 64 in the first housing portion 55, thinning of the electric connection unit 1 can be achieved, and a metallic heat dissipation portion (the extension portion 64) for promoting heat dissipation and / or heat storage of the first electronic component 10 can be disposed below the first electronic component 10. Thus, an increase in heat dissipation and / or heat storage of the electric connection unit 1 can be achieved.

[0195] In the present embodiment, the first bus bar 42 is housed in the first housing portion 55 and extends along the planar portion 51 throughout the entire length of the first bus bar 42. According to such a structure, a greater portion of the wiring path is formed on the plane, so thinning of the electric connection unit 1 is more easily achieved.

[0196] In the present embodiment, the electric connection unit 1 has a second bus bar 42 that is electrically connected to the second terminal 13B of the first electronic component 10. The planar portion 51 has a second housing portion 55 that is recessed in the Z direction or that penetrates the planar portion 51 in the Z direction at a position away from the first housing portion 55. At least a portion of the second bus bar 42 is housed in the second housing portion 55 and extends along the planar portion 51. According to such a structure, a greater portion of the wiring path including the plurality of bus bars 42 is held on the plane by one base plate 41, so thinning of the electric connection unit 1 is more easily achieved.

[0197] In the present embodiment, the electric connection unit 1 has a third bus bar 42. The first bus bar 42 is a bus bar included in the positive electrode line PL. The third bus bar 42 is a bus bar included in the negative electrode line NL. The planar portion 51 has a third housing portion 55 that is recessed in the Z direction or that penetrates the planar portion 51 in the Z direction at a position away from the first housing portion 55. At least a portion of the third bus bar 42 is housed in the third housing portion 55 and extends along the planar portion 51. According to such a structure, a greater portion of the wiring path forming the positive electrode line PL and the negative electrode line NL is held on the plane by one base plate 41, so thinning of the electric connection unit 1 is more easily achieved.

[0198] In the present embodiment, the electric connection unit 1 has the fourth bus bar 42G, the fifth bus bar (link bus bar) 75D, and the third connection member 100 that electrically connects the fourth bus bar 42G and the fifth bus bar 75D. The planar portion 51 has the fourth housing portion 55 that is recessed in the Z direction or that penetrates the planar portion 51 in the Z direction at a position away from the first housing portion 55. At least a portion of the fourth bus bar 42G is housed in the fourth housing portion 55 and extends along the planar portion 51. The third connection member 100 includes a portion that stands with respect to the fourth bus bar 42G. The fifth bus bar 75D is supported by the third connection member 100 at a position away from the first bus bar 42 in the Z direction and extends in parallel with the first surface 51a. According to such a structure, it is easy to form a three-dimensional wiring path through the fourth bus bar 42G, the third connection member 100, and the fifth bus bar 75D. Thus, it is possible to provide the electric connection unit 1 that is excellent in assembly. In addition, by providing the fourth bus bar 42G at the housing portion 55 of the base plate 41, a portion of the three-dimensional wiring path is formed within the thickness of the base plate 41. Thus, it is easier to achieve thinness of the electric connection unit 1.

[0199] In the present embodiment, the fifth bus bar 75D extends across the first bus bar 42 at a position away from the first bus bar 42 in the Z direction. According to such a structure, it is easy to form a wiring path that three-dimensionally crosses the first bus bar 42 through the third connection member 100 and the fifth bus bar 75D. Thus, it is possible to provide the electric connection unit 1 that is excellent in assembly.

[0200] <B. Advantages related to flat bus bars>

[0201] As a comparative example, an electric connection unit is considered in which a bus bar is provided in an erected posture with respect to a lower wall of a housing. In the structure of such a comparative example, it is necessary to fix the bus bar in the erected posture to the housing, and it is difficult to improve workability related to mounting of the bus bar. In this case, it can be difficult to improve assembly of the electric connection unit 1.

[0202] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the electric connection unit 1 has the base plate 41 and the bus bar 42. The base plate 41 includes the planar portion 51 that is plate-shaped. The planar portion 51 has the first housing portion 55 that is recessed in the Z direction or that penetrates the planar portion 51 in the Z direction. At least a portion of the bus bar 42 is housed in the first housing portion 55 and extends along the planar portion 51. According to such a structure, it is easy to integrally handle the base plate 41 and the bus bar 42, and it is possible to improve workability related to mounting of the bus bar compared to the structure of the above-described comparative example. Thus, it is possible to achieve improvement in assembly of the electric connection unit 1.

[0203] In the present embodiment, the bus bar 42 is housed in the housing portion 55 and extends along the planar portion 51 throughout the entire length of the bus bar 42. According to such a structure, improvement in the assemblability of the electrical connection unit 1 can be achieved, and thinning of the electrical connection unit 1 can be easily achieved.

[0204] In the present embodiment, the bus bar 42 is integrated with the base plate 41 by insert molding. According to such a structure, the work of manually mounting the bus bar 42 to the housing can be eliminated or reduced. Thus, further improvement in the assemblability of the electrical connection unit 1 can be achieved.

[0205] In the present embodiment, the fastening member 43 protruding in the Z direction from the bus bar 42 and the connection member 20, 30 mounted to the fastening member 43 in the Z direction are provided. The connection member 20, 30 electrically connects the electronic component 10 or the external device with the bus bar 42. According to such a structure, it is easy to make the direction of the work of mounting the connection target member to the bus bar 42 coincide with the Z direction. If the direction of the work can be made to coincide, further improvement in the assemblability of the electrical connection unit 1 can be achieved.

[0206] In the present embodiment, the connection member 20 is connected to the electronic component 10 in the X direction (or the Y direction). According to such a structure, by using the connection member 20 for the electronic component 10 that needs to be connected from the X direction, the connection direction of the electronic component 10 with respect to the bus bar 42 can be changed to the Z direction. Thus, further improvement in the assemblability of the electrical connection unit 1 can be achieved.

[0207] <C. Advantages Related to the Exposure Structure on the Upper Surface Side of the Bus Bar>

[0208] As a comparative example, an electrical connection unit in which the upper surface side of the bus bar 42 is covered with synthetic resin is considered. In the structure of such a comparative example, it is difficult to improve the heat dissipation of the bus bar 42.

[0209] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the electric connection unit 1 has the first electronic component 10, and a wiring substrate 40. The wiring substrate 40 includes a base plate 41 and a bus bar 42. The base plate 41 has a plate-shaped flat portion 51 having a first surface 51a facing the first electronic component 10 and a second surface 51b on the side opposite to the first surface 51a. The flat portion 51 has a housing portion 55 recessed in the Z direction or through the flat portion 51 in the Z direction. At least a portion of the bus bar 42 has a plate portion 42p housed in the housing portion 55 and extending along the flat portion 51. The plate portion 42p includes a first connection portion 61 overlapping the first connection component 20 when viewed in the Z direction and an extension portion 63 extending from the first connection portion 61 in a direction intersecting the Z direction. At least a portion of the extension portion 63 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the first surface 51a side. According to such a structure, at least a portion of a portion of the bus bar 42 other than the connection portions 61, 62 connected to other components is exposed to the outside, functioning as an area for releasing heat. In this case, an improvement in heat dissipation of the electric connection unit 1 can be achieved.

[0210] In the present embodiment, at least a portion of the extension portion 63 in a region R overlapping the first connection component 20 when viewed in the Z direction is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the first surface 51a side. According to such a structure, it is easy to cause a portion of the extension portion 63 to function as a heat dissipation portion for moving heat from the first connection component 20. In this case, an improvement in heat dissipation of the electric connection unit 1 can be achieved.

[0211] In the present embodiment, the first bus bar 42 has a second connection portion 62 overlapping the second connection components 20, 30 when viewed in the Z direction. The first bus bar 42 is housed in the housing portion 55 and extends along the flat portion 51 at least over the entire length between the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62, and is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the first surface 51a side. According to such a structure, a larger portion functions as a heat dissipation area, and thus an improvement in heat dissipation of the electric connection unit 1 can be achieved.

[0212] In the present embodiment, the bus bar 42 is housed in the housing portion 55 and extends along the flat portion 51 over the entire length of the bus bar 42, and is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the first surface 51a side. According to such a structure, a larger portion functions as a heat dissipation area, and thus an improvement in heat dissipation of the electric connection unit 1 can be achieved.

[0213] At least a portion of the extension portion 63 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the second surface 51b side in addition to the first surface 51a side. According to such a structure, a larger portion functions as a heat dissipation area, and thus an improvement in heat dissipation of the electric connection unit 1 can be achieved.

[0214] In a modification of the present embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 has a metal plate 80 facing the flat surface portion 51 and spaced apart from the flat surface portion 51 by a gap S1, and a thermally conductive member 92 disposed between the bus bar 42 and the metal plate 80. The base plate 41 has a cover portion 51v covering at least a portion of the extension portion 63 on the second surface 51b side. According to such a structure, even in a case where heat easily accumulates in the gap S1 between the base plate 41 and the metal plate 80, by providing the cover portion 51v, heat is less likely to accumulate in the gap S1.

[0215] <D. Advantages related to the exposed structure of the lower surface of the bus bar>

[0216] In order to improve the retention of the bus bar 42, a structure in which a portion other than the connection surface of the bus bar 42 with the electronic component 10 or the like is covered with resin is sometimes adopted. However, in the structure in which the portion other than the connection surface of the bus bar 42 is covered, there is a problem that the heat dissipation of the bus bar 42 becomes poor. In the present embodiment, the lower surface (surface on the opposite side from the component mounting surface) of the bus bar 42 is exposed, and a thermally conductive sheet is provided on the exposed surface. The thermally conductive sheet is connected to the metal plate 80 (rigid member, heat dissipation member) provided below the wiring substrate 40. Thereby, heat can be favorably conducted from the bus bar 42 to the metal plate 80 (side opposite to the component mounting surface) via the thermally conductive sheet.

[0217] <E. Advantages related to the structure of the connection member>

[0218] The connection member 20, 30, 100 of the present embodiment is a connection member that connects the first bus bar 42 and a connection target member (the electronic component 10, the second bus bar 75, 76), and has a first portion 21, 31, 101 extending in a first direction (Z direction), and a second portion 22, 32, 102 extending from one end portion of the first portion 21, 31, 101 in a second direction (X direction) intersecting the first direction, and opposing and fixed to the first bus bar 42 in the first direction.

[0219] The first portion 21, 31, 101 has a first mounting portion 21fA capable of mounting a fastening member 72, 73 in the first direction in a case where a first connection target member 10N, 75, 76 is applied as the connection target member, and a second mounting portion 21fB capable of mounting a fastening member 71 in the second direction in a case where a second connection target member 10M is applied as the connection target member.

[0220] According to this structure, the connection member arranged between the first bus bar 42 and the connection target member 10, 75, 76 is in an L shape having a portion extending in the first direction and the second direction crossing each other. The first portion 21, 31, 101 standing in the first direction opposite to the first bus bar 42 has a first mounting portion 21fA capable of mounting the first target member by the fastening member 72 arranged in the first direction and a second mounting portion 21fB capable of mounting the second target member by the fastening member 71 arranged in the second direction. Thus, the first target member required to be fastened from the direction opposite to the first bus bar 42 and the second target member required to be fastened from the direction along the first bus bar 42 can be mounted to the first bus bar 42 by one kind of connection member. Thus, the commonality of the constituent members of the electrical connection unit 1 can be promoted. In addition, the generalization of the members of the electrical connection unit 1 can be achieved.

[0221] In addition, in the connection member 20, 30, 100 of the present embodiment, the first mounting portion 21fA has a mounting hole 21hA penetrating the first portion in the first direction, and the second mounting portion 21fB has a mounting hole 21hB penetrating the first portion in the second direction.

[0222] According to this structure, by providing each mounting hole 21hA, 21hB as a through hole, each mounting portion 21fA, 21fB can be easily formed, and the light weight of the connection member can be achieved.

[0223] In addition, in the connection member 20, 30, 100 of the present embodiment, the thickness T1 of the first portion 21, 31, 101 in the second direction is greater than the thickness T2 of the second portion 22, 32, 102 in the first direction.

[0224] According to this structure, by making the first portion 21, 31, 101 thicker than the second portion 22, 32, 102, the mounting portions 21fA, 21fB in the two directions orthogonal to each other can be easily formed in the first portion 21, 31, 101, and the heat storage capacity of the first portion 21, 31, 101 or the entire connection member can be increased, and the improvement of the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit 1 can be achieved.

[0225] In addition, in the connection member 20, 30, 100 of the present embodiment, in the case where a direction crossing the first direction and the second direction is set as a third direction (Y direction), the first mounting portion 21fA and the second mounting portion 21fB are arranged at different positions in the third direction.

[0226] According to this structure, the first mounting portion 21fA and the second mounting portion 21fB in the first portion 21, 31, 101 are arranged at positions different from each other in a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction, whereby the intervals of the mounting portions 21fA, 21fB in two directions perpendicular to each other can be easily obtained in the first portion. Thus, the formation of each mounting portion 21fA, 21fB can be facilitated, and at the same time, the fastening members for each mounting portion 21fA, 21fB are separated from each other, so that the fastening work can be facilitated.

[0227] In addition, in the connection member 20, 30, 100 of the present embodiment, the second portion 22, 32, 102 has a third mounting portion 22fA fixed to the first bus bar 42 by mounting a fastening member 43 in the first direction.

[0228] According to this structure, the second portion 22, 32, 102 has the third mounting portion 22fA fixed to the first bus bar 42, whereby the second portion 22, 32, 102 separate from the first portion 21, 31, 101 having a plurality of mounting portions can be fixed to the first bus bar 42.

[0229] In addition, in the connection member 20, 30, 100 of the present embodiment, in a case where a direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction is assumed to be a third direction (Y direction), the first mounting portion 21fA, the second mounting portion 21fB, and the third mounting portion 22fA are arranged at positions different from each other in the third direction.

[0230] According to this structure, by arranging the three mounting portions at positions different from each other, the fastening members used for each mounting portion can be separated from each other, so that the fastening work can be facilitated.

[0231] In addition, in the connection member 20, 30, 100 of the present embodiment, the connection target member is the electronic component 10 or the second bus bar 75, 76.

[0232] According to this structure, a plurality of connection target members can be mounted to the first bus bar 42 using one kind of connection member, so that the commonality of the constituent members of the electrical connection unit 1 can be promoted. In addition, the commonality of the members of the electrical connection unit 1 can be achieved.

[0233] Furthermore, the electrical connection unit 1 of the present embodiment has the first bus bar 42 and the connection member 20, 30, 100, whereby the first target member required to be fastened from a direction opposite to the first bus bar 42 and the second target member required to be fastened in a direction along the first bus bar 42 can be mounted to the first bus bar 42 using one kind of connection member, so that the commonality of the constituent members can be achieved. In addition, the commonality of the members of the electrical connection unit 1 can be achieved.

[0234] <Modification example>

[0235] Next, several modification examples will be described. In each of the modification examples, the structures other than the following description are the same as those of the above-described embodiment.

[0236] (First modification example)

[0237] The wiring substrate 40 is not limited to the structure in which the base plate 41 and the bus bars 42 are integrated by insert molding. For example, the bus bars 42 can be disposed in the housing portions 55 after the base plate 41 provided with the housing portions 55 that house the bus bars 42 is molded. In this case, the bus bars 42 can be fixed to the housing portions 55 by fitting, or can be fixed to the housing portions 55 by an adhesive or other fixing means. In these cases, potting that fills the gap between the bus bars 42 and the housing portions 55 can also be performed.

[0238] (Second modification example)

[0239] The base member of the wiring substrate 40 is not limited to the base plate 41 having the planar portion 51 in a plate shape. The wiring substrate 40 can also be a base member (for example, an insulating sheet) having a planar portion 51 in a sheet shape. In this case, the housing portions 55 can also be formed by causing a part of the planar portion 51 to follow the outer shape of the bus bars 42. Note that in the present application, "sheet shape" or "sheet" is not limited to a member having a thickness of 1 mm or more, and can also be a member (so-called film) having a thickness of less than 1 mm.

[0240] (Third modification example)

[0241] The base plate 41 of the wiring substrate 40 can include a plurality of members (plate members or sheet members). The plurality of members are disposed so as to sandwich a plurality of bus bars 42 arranged in the horizontal direction, for example, from both sides in the Z direction. The plurality of members are integrated, for example, by laminated molding so as to sandwich the plurality of bus bars 42. The plurality of members form the planar portion 51. In this case, the housing portions 55 can also be formed in a hollow shape inside the base plate 41 (between the plurality of members). The plurality of members can be a plurality of plate members, can be a plurality of sheet members, or can be a combination of plate members and sheet members. The sheet members can be, for example, sheet members having flexibility. The planar portion 51 formed by the plurality of members has an opening that exposes at least the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62 of the bus bar 42. For example, in this case, the housing portions 55 formed between the plurality of members correspond to an example of the "housing portions recessed in the first direction (Z direction)".

[0242] (Fourth modification example)

[0243] The connection of the electronic component 10 to the bus bar 42 is not limited to the connection via the connection component 20. The electronic component 10 can also be directly connected to the bus bar 42 using a fastening component (e.g., a bolt, a screw), or welding, or the like.

[0244] The above describes several embodiments and modifications. However, the embodiments and modifications are not limited to the above-described examples. For example, a plurality of embodiments can be combined with each other to be implemented. The above-described embodiments can be implemented in other various ways, and various additions, omissions, substitutions, changes can be made within a range not departing from the gist of the present application.

[0245] [Industrial applicability]

[0246] According to the present application, generalization of components of an electrical connection unit can be achieved.

[0247] Explanation of reference numerals

[0248] 1 Electrical connection unit

[0249] 10, 75, 76 Connection target component

[0250] 10 Electronic component (connection target component)

[0251] 10M Electronic component of the first type (second connection target component)

[0252] 10N Electronic component of the second type (first connection target component)

[0253] 20, 30, 100 Connection component

[0254] 21, 31, 101 First portion

[0255] 22, 32, 102 Second portion

[0256] 21fA First mounting portion

[0257] 21fB Second mounting portion

[0258] 21hA First mounting hole

[0259] 21hB Second mounting hole

[0260] 22fA Third mounting portion

[0261] 22hA Third mounting hole

[0262] 42 Bus bar (first bus bar)

[0263] 43, 71, 72, 73 Fastening component

[0264] 75 Link bus bar (first connection target component, second bus bar)

[0265] 76 external connection bus bar (first connection target member, second bus bar)

Claims

1. A connecting member characterized by comprising: is a connection member for connecting a first bus bar with a connection object member, and has: a first portion extending in a first direction; and a second portion extending from an end portion of the first portion in a second direction crossing the first direction, opposite to the first bus bar in the first direction, and fixed to the first bus bar, the first portion has: a first mounting portion to which a first fastening member is mountable in the first direction in a case where a first connection object member is applied as the connection object member; and a second mounting portion to which a second fastening member is mountable in the second direction in a case where a second connection object member is applied as the connection object member.

2. The connection member according to claim 1, wherein the first mounting portion has a mounting hole through the first portion in the first direction, the second mounting portion has a mounting hole through the first portion in the second direction.

3. The connection member according to claim 1, wherein a thickness of the first portion in the second direction is greater than a thickness of the second portion in the first direction.

4. The connection member according to claim 1, wherein in a case where a direction crossing the first direction and the second direction is a third direction, the first mounting portion and the second mounting portion are disposed at positions different from each other in the third direction.

5. The connection member according to claim 1, wherein the second portion has a third mounting portion fixed to the first bus bar by mounting a third fastening member in the first direction.

6. The connection member according to claim 5, wherein in a case where a direction crossing the first direction and the second direction is a third direction, the first mounting portion, the second mounting portion, and the third mounting portion are disposed at positions different from each other in the third direction.

7. The connection member according to claim 1, wherein the connection object member is an electronic component or a second bus bar.

8. An electrical connection unit, characterized by having: the first bus bar; and the connection member according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

Images